As a historic seaport and one of the earliest settlements in New Hampshire to be incorporated, Portsmouth also contains some of the state's longest-surviving buildings. The city's architecture has been well-preserved so it can be enjoyed by current and future generations. On private residence in the city holds the claim of being the oldest building in New Hampshire and for history buffs, it is a must-see.
The Richard Jackson House was constructed in 1664 by Richard Jackson, a woodworker, farmer, and mariner.
As originally built, the house was two stories with two rooms on each floor. The rooms were situated around a large central chimney.
The house was built on 25 acres of land above North Mill Pond. Its design was extravagant for its notable use of wood.
Succeeding generations of the Jackson family expanded the house starting in 1715 with subsequent additions following later.
The architecture resembles that of post-medieval prototypes from England, yet also contains uniquely American carpentry features of the time.
The house was owned by generations of the Jackson family until the 1920s. It was then acquired by the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities for restoration and preservation.
For more about this fascinating structure and to learn more about how you can tour the oldest building in New Hampshire, visit Historic New England. Portsmouth is home to some of the state's oldest and most well-preserved history that's worthy of a weekend of exploration.
I'm fascinated by history as I am always curious about the stories that are connected to it. If you feel the same, you may be interested in touring these four New Hampshire living history museums that will transport you back in time.
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